Jerry Moore: Suspicion of legislators erodes trust in government

Wednesday

Jun 25, 2008 at 12:01 AMJun 25, 2008 at 12:21 AM

How infuriating is it to see lawmakers accused of running afoul of the law State Rep. Bob Biggins, R-41st District, of Elmhurst is the latest elected official caught in a legal quandary. He was charged May 28 with driving under the influence, improper lane use and not having proof of insurance.

Jerry Moore

How infuriating is it to see lawmakers accused of running afoul of the law?

Illinois State Rep. Bob Biggins is the latest elected official caught in a legal quandary. He was charged May 28 with driving under the influence, improper lane use and not having proof of insurance.

After his arrest, Biggins released a statement: “I made a serious lapse in judgment and sincerely apologize to my family and those I represent who may be disappointed today. I take full responsibility for my actions and will face any and all legal consequences.”

At first glance, it appeared that Biggins admitted to being intoxicated while driving a car. He wanted to give his constituents the impression that he regrets putting himself in the situation and that he’s willing to accept the consequences.

But the statement is cleverly worded in that it didn’t specify what “serious lapse in judgment” he made. Biggins pleaded not guilty in court last week, and he faces a July 28 court date. Given that he refused blood-alcohol testing at the time of his arrest, Biggins seems poised to fight the case against him.

As a citizen of the United States and a resident of Illinois, Biggins has that right. It’s up to the state to prove the charges.

However, he’s a part of the state. He’s integrally involved in the process that defines illegal activity and prosecutes those who engage in it.

This creates a conflict of interest for lawmakers in Biggins’ position. In their official capacity, they help maintain social order by enacting laws to keep people safe. But as the focus of criminal charges, they undermine people’s trust in government. How can we have faith in the legislative system when those we put in charge of it can’t seem to follow their rules?

If Biggins was driving while drunk, he should resign his seat in the Illinois House of Representatives. That’s his decision to make, though, because only he knows whether he was impaired. If he stays, he’ll have to live with the public suspicion that he’s another elected official trying to get away with breaking the law.

Jerry Moore is a news editor with Suburban Life Publications. He can be contacted at jmoore@mysuburbanlife.com.